How to Identify Queen Angelfish

To identify Queen Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are characterized by a brilliant blue to blue-green body, often with yellow-orange margins on the scales. The most distinctive feature is a large, dark blue or black spot on the forehead, encircled by an electric blue halo, resembling a 'crown'. The caudal fin is bright yellow, and the pectoral fins are also yellow. Juveniles are dark blue with five vertical electric blue bars, and a yellow caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large, dark blue 'crown' spot on the forehead with an electric blue halo in adults., Bright yellow caudal fin in both adults and juveniles., Elongated dorsal and anal fins that extend beyond the caudal fin base in adults., Preopercular spine at the corner of the gill cover.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 14 spines and 19-21 soft rays, extending posteriorly.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate, bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

Rounded, yellow, with 19-20 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 20-22 soft rays, also elongated posteriorly.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adult Coloration

   Look for the vibrant blue-green body, yellow caudal fin, and the prominent 'crown' marking on the forehead (a dark spot encircled by electric blue).

2. 2

   Juvenile Coloration

   Juveniles are dark blue with five distinct vertical electric blue bars and a yellow caudal fin. This pattern is unique among angelfish juveniles in its range.

3. 3

   Fin Shape

   Adults have elongated dorsal and anal fins that extend beyond the base of the caudal fin, giving them a flowing appearance.

4. 4

   Size

   Can grow up to 45 cm (18 inches) in total length, making it one of the larger angelfish species.

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